For the roughly 29 million Americans living with diabetes, the disease certainly can take a toll on one’s health, lifestyle, and well-being. Aside from possible high cholesterol levels and blood pressure, people living with diabetes have an increased chance of developing heart disease, stroke, and other health issues. But what is the link between diabetes and heart disease?
High blood glucose from diabetes can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart and blood vessels. So, the longer you have diabetes, the higher the risks of developing heart disease you may have. Some other factors that connect diabetes to heart issues are a person’s cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight. Genetics can also play a role in developing diabetes and heart disease.
On World Heart Day, the providers at St. George Medical Clinic want to remind patients and community members to take care of your most important organ—your heart. Folks with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, therefore it is important to take care of your body.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to decrease your chances of developing heart issues if you are living with diabetes.
1. Check cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose often.
First things first, to properly manage your diabetes, be sure to take all the necessary tests to determine your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol several times a day. It’s important to stay up-to-date with these tests and seek advice from your physician if you have any concerns about your results. Making sure your cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose levels aren’t too high or too low is key to staying healthy.
2. Put down the cigarettes.
Overall, smoking tobacco is bad for anyone’s health, but especially for people living with diabetes and who have a higher risk of developing heart disease. By eliminating tobacco products, you’re lowering your risk for heart attack, stroke, nerve disease, and many other health concerns. Your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol may also improve once you kick the habit. It’s a win-win.
3. Develop healthy lifestyle habits.
By adding healthy meals and physical activity to your daily routine, you are working toward managing your diabetes and prevent further health complications. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting plenty of sleep also play a role in your overall health.
4. Follow your doctor’s orders.
To prevent your chances of developing other health issues, be sure to take the medications prescribed to you by your primary care provider. These prescriptions could reduce your risks of blood clots, heart attack, and/or stroke and could also treat angina. If you have any concerns about the medications you have been prescribed, it’s best to talk to your doctor and pharmacist and ask any questions you may have.
Living with diabetes can be difficult to navigate, especially with the other health issues linked to the disease. However, with these tips in mind, you can lead a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle with diabetes. Contact your health care provider at St. George Medical Clinic if you have any concerns or need help making lifestyle switches.